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New Brunswick Summer Vacation Ideas

Kayak the dramatic Bay of Fundy tides, experience vibrant Acadian culture, and visit serene national parks on a New Brunswick summer vacation.

Tide-carved cliffs, quiet forest hiking trails, softly gliding kayaks, friendly campgrounds, and toe-tapping Acadian music make New Brunswick a lively summer destination. Whether for a family vacation or romantic getaway, the province offers urban attractions in Saint John and Moncton, natural wonders in the national parks, and countless sandy shores along the coast.

Visit the eastern Canada province for a summer vacation and enjoy a relaxing summer holiday.

Bay of Fundy, NB Summer Vacation Ideas

Along the New Brunswick coast of the Bay of Fundy, dramatic cliffs and tidal beaches create an interesting shoreline to explore. From bicycling to kayaking the area is ideal for an active summer vacation. Birdwatch near Alma and Fundy National Park, visit the quaint community of St-Andrews-by-the-Sea and Kingsbrae Garden, or visit a chocolate factory in St. Stephen.

Perhaps the most treasured destination for a Bay of Fundy vacation, however, are the towering Hopewell Rocks – ocean-carved pillars also called Flowerpot Rocks. Admire the shapes of the pilars ranging from aliens to animals when the Fundy tide recedes. Then watch as the tide comes in and the Hopewell Rocks nearly disappear.

Find more outdoor adventure and stunning coastline at Cape Enrage, an outpost on the Fundy shore for activity lovers and those willing to travel off the highway for unbeatable views.

Summer Vacation Ideas for New Brunswick National Parks

With two New Brunswick national parks, outdoors folk will find lots of camping, swimming, bicycling, wildlife watching, and hiking opportunities.

Known for its warm salt waters and calm swimming lagoons, Kouchibouguac National Park rates as a favorite family destination. Campgrounds and canoe and kayak rentals complement the unique sand dune environment.

On the Bay of Fundy coast, Fundy National Park protects an interesting mix of development (swimming pools and a nine-hole golf course), wilderness (hiking trails and beaches), and history (covered bridges).

Both New Brunswick national parks are also a day-trip distance from Moncton and Saint John, the province’s two largest cities. Those looking for budget vacation ideas will enjoy the low-cost of a camping summer vacation. But reserve popular weekends early at both Fundy National Park, (506) 887-6000, and Kouchibouguac National Park, (506) 876-2443.

Things to Do in Moncton and Saint John, NB

The two largest cities in New Brunswick offer an urban mix of markets, restaurants, and quality hotels. But the two cities also feature some unique attractions.

Saint John is home to the oldest farmer’s market in Canada, at City Market. While in the city, a boat ride or walk to view the Reversing Falls is also a must. Check in with the visitor center, (506) 658-2855 or (866) 463-8639, to confirm the tide schedule then watch as the tide rises and reverses the direction of the river.

In Moncton – an excellent central location for New Brunswick day trips – great family vacation activities include visiting Crystal Palace Amusement Park and debating the force of Magnetic Hill.

Acadian Coast, NB Summer Vacation Ideas

For an authentic Acadian experience, travel the Acadian Coastal Drive that winds north from Aulac along the coast to Miramichi and Bathurst. Time a visit with the early August Caraquet Acadian Festival – a celebration of Acadian culture through song, dance, music, and noise (including the uproar of Tintamarre, a loud and boisterous street parade).

Or, plan a holiday on the Acadian Coast to sample seafood and see the world’s largest lobster in Shediac, tour demonstration villages such as the Village Historique Acadien, and photograph historic architecture.

Planning a New Brunswick Summer Vacation

From June through September the New Brunswick weather is ideal for a vacation. Beach and camping summer vacations in New Brunswick are best planned for July and August, while birdwatchers and hikers can enjoy the shoulder season and lower accommodation rates during June, September, and early October.